Exemplary Applications of Tools

In this chapter, three case studies are presented to demonstrate the applicability of the developed methods and tools. Figure 5.1 characterizes the case studies A–C with regard to the planning phases and tools (I–IV). Study A (Sect. 5.1) shows the way from an early technology assessment in a new technology field towards the set-up of a first simulation environment to support rough directional decisions in product design. Study B (Sect. 5.2) demonstrates how the tools support the planner during a traditional planning process with known production technologies to avoid planning iterations with machine vendors. Study C (Sect. 5.3) shows the flexibility of the developed DFS by conducting an economical comparison of two completely different production concepts for similar products.